FSG confirms minority stake talks with Bhatia consortium for Liverpool
Fenway Sports Group has acknowledged ongoing discussions regarding a potential minority investment led by Amit Bhatia and backed by industrialist Lakshmi Mittal, though no agreement has been finalised.
Fenway Sports Group (FSG) has confirmed that negotiations are underway regarding the sale of a minority stake in Liverpool Football Club to a consortium led by businessman Amit Bhatia. The discussions, which have reportedly been taking place for approximately three months, centre on a proposed offer of around £1.35 billion for a 30% share in the club.
While FSG acknowledged that a consortium managed by Bhatia has expressed interest in making a minority investment, the owners emphasised that no agreement has been reached. The potential transaction would value Liverpool at approximately £4.5 billion, a figure that aligns with recent market trends for elite English clubs, despite some industry experts viewing the valuation as ambitious.
The consortium is supported by Lakshmi Mittal, Bhatia’s father-in-law and a prominent industrialist with an estimated fortune of £23 billion. Mittal’s financial backing provides the group with the resources necessary to pursue a deal of this magnitude. Bhatia’s recent departure from the board of Queens Park Rangers (QPR), a club he has been associated with since investing in 2007, has strengthened expectations that he is preparing for a significant new venture.
FSG’s willingness to entertain a minority sale suggests an openness to bringing in new financial partners without relinquishing full control of the club. Since acquiring Liverpool for £300 million in 2010, the group has overseen a period of significant growth, including the expansion of commercial revenue and facilities, as well as the club’s return to the summit of English and European football.
The reported valuation is consistent with the increasing worth of top-tier Premier League assets, evidenced by Chelsea’s takeover in 2022 and Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s purchase of a 25% stake in Manchester United. Liverpool is currently on a pre-season tour in the United States ahead of the 2026/27 campaign, which will commence with a friendly against Sunderland in Nashville.
